Diplomatic Strain: Canada’s Spy Chief Visits India Twice to Share Evidence about Nijjar’s Murder

David Vigneault, the head of Canada’s intelligence agency, conducted two secret visits to India in February and March to discuss allegations implicating Indian spy agencies in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader advocating for Khalistan. Nijjar was murdered outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2022. This incident has significantly strained diplomatic relations between Canada and India, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly accusing India of being involved in the killing.

Vigneault’s visits occurred just before Canadian authorities arrested three Indian nationals—Karanpreet Singh (28), Kamalpreet Singh (22), and Karan Brar (22)—on charges related to Nijjar’s assassination. A fourth Indian national, Amandeep Singh, was also subsequently detained by Canadian officials. While a Canadian government representative confirmed Vigneault’s travels to India, they refrained from disclosing the details or subjects of his confidential discussions.

The official stated, “We can confirm that the Director of CSIS, David Vigneault, has travelled to India but we do not comment on the nature or substance of closed-door meetings.” He further emphasized that since Canada became aware of credible allegations, it has been consistently sharing all available information regarding the Nijjar case with India through various channels.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), under Vigneault’s leadership, has been pivotal in gathering and sharing intelligence that surfaced during Ottawa’s investigation into Nijjar’s murder. Meanwhile, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) continues to spearhead the ongoing investigation into the assassination.

The murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar has exacerbated tensions between India and Canada, two countries that have historically enjoyed amicable relations. Nijjar, a vocal advocate for the Khalistan movement, which seeks to establish an independent Sikh state, had reportedly been on the radar of Indian authorities due to his political activities. Trudeau’s public allegations against India have led to a diplomatic standoff, with both nations exchanging barbs and summoning each other’s envoys for explanations.

Vigneault’s undisclosed visits to India highlight the gravity with which Canada is treating the allegations and its commitment to pursuing justice for Nijjar’s assassination. The meetings aimed at providing Indian officials with intelligence and evidence gathered by Canadian authorities signify an effort to maintain transparency and collaboration, despite the strained relations.

To summarize, David Vigneault’s clandestine trips to India underscore the serious diplomatic and intelligence efforts underway in response to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.